This requirement is set to take effect in June, based on a decision by the Court of Appeals. The House and Senate are trying to compromise on a cost-effective way to handle it.

But the session ends on April 7, and Zirkin said those negotiations may collapse. In that case, amending the constitution could be a backup measure.

Zirkin opposes Sen. Brian Frosh's proposal to automate decisions on whether each person is jailed or released after arrest. Frosh's system would use data equations, such as the person's criminal history.